Framework introduces Compact Gaming Desktop for Portable Performance

Introducing the Framework Desktop

Today’s a big day for tech enthusiasts! We’re thrilled to unveil the Framework Desktop, a compact 4.5L Mini-ITX powerhouse that’s ready to shake up the desktop scene. Powered by AMD’s Ryzen AI Max processors, this little machine is set to redefine what we expect from desktop performance. Pre-orders are now open, with the first shipments rolling out in early Q3 2025.

So, what makes the Ryzen AI Max so special? Picture this: up to 16 CPU cores running at a blistering 5.1 GHz boost clock, discrete-level Radeon 8060S graphics, and the ability to support a jaw-dropping 128 GB of unified LPDDR5X memory. Whether you’re diving into intense gaming sessions at 1440p or tackling heavy creative workloads, this processor is an absolute beast. We adjusted our roadmap a year ago to make room for this powerhouse, and trust us, it was worth every minute of planning.

Why a Desktop?

You might be asking yourself, “Why does Framework need to enter the desktop market? Aren’t desktops already modular and upgradeable?” Absolutely, they are! In fact, the desktop ethos has been a major source of inspiration for the Framework Laptop. The desktop world is rich with possibilities, offering a vibrant ecosystem where creativity knows no bounds. With countless brands and millions of users, you can build, upgrade, and personalize your setup to your heart’s content.

We believe everyone should have the chance to experience the thrilling culture of PCs and gaming. That’s why we’ve crafted a desktop that’s not only incredibly powerful but also compact and customizable.

Built with Standards in Mind

To make this accessible, we leaned heavily on established PC standards. The Framework Desktop’s Ryzen AI Max-powered Mainboard is designed in a standard mini-ITX form factor, complete with ATX headers, a PCIe x4 slot, and a robust rear I/O setup that includes two USB4 ports, two DisplayPort outputs, HDMI, and 5Gbit Ethernet. Want to drop it into your own case? Go for it!

We’ve partnered with FSP to create a semi-custom 400 W power supply in the standard Flex ATX form factor. Plus, we’re using standard 120 mm CPU fans, thanks to a collaborative thermal system developed with Cooler Master and Noctua. Want to bring your own fan? You can do that too! And for the storage aficionados, we’ve included two PCIe NVMe M.2 2280 slots, allowing for up to 16 TB of storage, along with Wi-Fi 7 capabilities through the RZ717 Wi-Fi module.

Customization at Your Fingertips

Customization is where the Framework Desktop really shines. You can choose between sleek black or translucent side panels, select an RGB fan for that extra flair, and even add a handy carrying handle for those LAN parties (or just to move it to your living room). The front panel is a canvas of 21 color-customizable tiles, and we’re making this even more fun by open-sourcing the design so you can 3D print your own unique look!

We’ve also carried over our popular Expansion Card system from the Framework Laptops, giving you two slots at the front for further customization. Now, there is one area where we had to diverge from traditional PC norms—memory. To harness the incredible 256 GB/s memory bandwidth that Ryzen AI Max delivers, the LPDDR5x is soldered in place. We explored every avenue with AMD to find a modular solution, but ultimately, it wasn’t feasible. However, we’re committed to keeping memory pricing reasonable, so you won’t break the bank.

Incredible Value for Gamers and AI Enthusiasts

Let’s talk pricing. The top-tier Ryzen AI Max+ 395 configuration with 128 GB of memory starts at just $1999 USD. This isn’t just a great deal for gaming; it’s a game-changer for AI workloads too. Until now, local AI inference has been limited by high prices and memory constraints. With the Framework Desktop, you can run massive models like Llama 3.3 70B Q6 at real-time conversational speeds right from your desk. And thanks to USB4 and 5Gbit Ethernet, connecting multiple systems or Mainboards to tackle even larger models, like the full DeepSeek R1 671B, is a breeze.

For those looking for something more budget-friendly, the base model starts at $1099. This features an 8-core Ryzen AI Max 385 configuration with 32 GB of memory. Plus, all systems are DIY Editions, meaning you can choose your own storage and operating system. Building your PC has never been easier, and we’ll be rolling out step-by-step guides and videos to help you through the process.

Framework Desktop supports both Windows 11 and a variety of popular Linux distributions like Ubuntu and Fedora, along with gaming-centric OS options like Bazzite and Playtron. You can even pre-order the Mainboard on its own, starting at $799.

The Future of Desktop Computing

With the Framework Desktop, we’re bringing you a revolutionary processor from AMD, and we can’t wait for you to see what we’ve created. This isn’t just about building a desktop; it’s about fostering a community where creativity and innovation flourish. So, are you ready to join us in redefining desktop computing? We think you’ll love what’s in store!

Background Information

---

About AMD:

AMD, a large player in the semiconductor industry is known for its powerful processors and graphic solutions, AMD has consistently pushed the boundaries of performance, efficiency, and user experience. With a customer-centric approach, the company has cultivated a reputation for delivering high-performance solutions that cater to the needs of gamers, professionals, and general users. AMD's Ryzen series of processors have redefined the landscape of desktop and laptop computing, offering impressive multi-core performance and competitive pricing that has challenged the dominance of its competitors. Complementing its processor expertise, AMD's Radeon graphics cards have also earned accolades for their efficiency and exceptional graphical capabilities, making them a favored choice among gamers and content creators. The company's commitment to innovation and technology continues to shape the client computing landscape, providing users with powerful tools to fuel their digital endeavors.

  

Latest Articles about AMD

---

About Cooler Master:

Cooler Master is a company founded in 1992 in Taiwan. They specialize in producing computer hardware and accessories, with a strong focus on cooling solutions. Cooler Master is well-regarded for their computer cases, cooling fans, power supplies, and gaming peripherals. Their products are designed to enhance the performance and aesthetics of gaming PCs and workstations.

  

Latest Articles about Cooler Master

---

About Noctua:

Noctua is an Austrian company founded in 2005, specializing in premium PC cooling and cooling-related components. They are highly regarded for their high-performance, low-noise cooling solutions, including CPU coolers, fans, and thermal paste. Noctua is known for its dedication to quality, innovation, and providing efficient and silent cooling solutions for PC enthusiasts and professionals

  

Latest Articles about Noctua

Technology Explained

---

ATX: ATX (Advanced Technology eXtended) is a type of motherboard form factor that has become the standard in the computer industry. It was first introduced in the mid-1990s and has since evolved to become the most widely used form factor for desktop computers. The main purpose of ATX is to provide a standardized layout for computer components, making it easier for manufacturers to design and produce compatible parts. This has led to a more efficient and cost-effective production process, resulting in more affordable and reliable computers for consumers. Additionally, the ATX form factor allows for better airflow and cooling within the computer, which is crucial for maintaining optimal performance. Overall, ATX technology has greatly contributed to the advancement of the computer industry by providing a universal standard for computer components and improving the overall functionality and reliability of computers.

Latest Articles about ATX

---

CPU: The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the brain of a computer, responsible for executing instructions and performing calculations. It is the most important component of a computer system, as it is responsible for controlling all other components. CPUs are used in a wide range of applications, from desktop computers to mobile devices, gaming consoles, and even supercomputers. CPUs are used to process data, execute instructions, and control the flow of information within a computer system. They are also used to control the input and output of data, as well as to store and retrieve data from memory. CPUs are essential for the functioning of any computer system, and their applications in the computer industry are vast.

Latest Articles about CPU

---

DisplayPort: DisplayPort is a digital display interface developed by the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA). It is primarily used to connect a computer to a monitor or other display device such as a television. DisplayPort is capable of delivering high-resolution video and audio, as well as providing power to connected devices. It is also capable of daisy-chaining multiple displays together, allowing for a single connection to multiple monitors. This makes DisplayPort a popular choice for gamers, video editors, and other users who require multiple displays. DisplayPort is also used in many laptops and tablets, allowing for a single connection to a monitor or other display device. It is also used in many modern TVs, allowing for a single connection to a computer or other device.

Latest Articles about DisplayPort

---

ITX: ITX (Information Technology eXtended) is a form factor for motherboards and other computer components. It is a small form factor that is designed to be more compact than traditional ATX motherboards. ITX motherboards are typically used in small form factor PCs, such as those used in home theater PCs, media centers, and other small form factor applications. ITX motherboards are also used in embedded systems, such as those used in industrial automation, medical equipment, and other embedded applications. ITX motherboards offer a number of advantages over traditional ATX motherboards, such as lower power consumption, smaller size, and improved cooling. Additionally, ITX motherboards are often more affordable than their ATX counterparts, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers.

Latest Articles about ITX

---

LPDDR5X: LPDDR5X is a type of computer memory technology that is used in many modern computers. It stands for Low Power Double Data Rate 5X and is a type of Random Access Memory (RAM). It is designed to be more efficient than its predecessors, allowing for faster data transfer speeds and lower power consumption. This makes it ideal for use in laptops, tablets, and other mobile devices. It is also used in gaming consoles and other high-end computers. LPDDR5X is capable of transferring data at up to 8400 megabits per second, making it one of the fastest types of RAM available. This makes it ideal for applications that require high performance, such as gaming, video editing, and 3D rendering.

Latest Articles about LPDDR5X

---

M.2: M.2, also known as Next Generation Form Factor (NGFF), is a computer expansion card format that is designed to replace the outdated mSATA standard. It is thinner and longer than mSATA, which gives it a much higher data transfer rate. The M.2 format measures 22mm in width and can measure up to 110mm in length. It uses the M-key and B-key connectors to interface with PC host systems, and can connect to both SATA III and PCIe for data transfer. Due to its small size, M.2 is often used for ultra-slim laptops and netbooks, as well as in embedded SSDs for tablets and other mobile devices. It is also becoming increasingly popular in the desktop computer industry, thanks to its compactness and fast transfer speeds. This makes M.2 ideal for gaming PCs, workstations, and other demanding applications that require high levels of data throughput.

Latest Articles about M.2

---

mini-ITX: The mini-ITX is a small form factor computer motherboard developed by VIA Technologies in 2001. It is designed to be a low-power, low-cost solution for embedded and small form factor applications. It is a 6.7-inch square motherboard that supports a wide range of processors, including Intel and AMD CPUs, as well as VIA's own C3 and C7 processors. The mini-ITX is used in a variety of applications, including home theater PCs, small form factor desktops, and embedded systems. It is also used in industrial applications, such as medical imaging, digital signage, and point-of-sale systems. The mini-ITX is a popular choice for computer enthusiasts who want to build their own small form factor PCs. It is also used in many commercial products, such as the Apple Mac mini and the Asus Eee PC.

Latest Articles about mini-ITX

---

NVMe: Non-Volatile Memory Express (NVMe) is a newly developed technology that has been gaining traction in the computer industry. This technology is a standard interface which allows for high-speed storage and retrieval of data from solid state drives (SSDs). NVMe is designed to increase the speed of data transfers in storage systems by enabling a direct connection to PCI Express (PCIe) bus, resulting in significantly faster access times compared to traditional interface protocols such SSDs. NVMe is particularly useful for applications that require lightning-fast access to large amounts of high-value data. NVMe-based SSDs are being widely adopted in the computer industry and are being employed to power data centers, high-end workstations, and gaming machines to support lightning-fast data processing and retrieval, which unlocks possibilities for machine learning, real-time analytics, edge computing, and other cutting-edge applications. NVMe is proving to be an invaluable tool in the field of computing, offering immense

Latest Articles about NVMe

---

PCIe: PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) is a high-speed serial computer expansion bus standard for connecting components such as graphics cards, sound cards, and network cards to a motherboard. It is the most widely used interface in the computer industry today, and is used in both desktop and laptop computers. PCIe is capable of providing up to 16 times the bandwidth of the older PCI standard, allowing for faster data transfer speeds and improved performance. It is also used in a variety of other applications, such as storage, networking, and communications. PCIe is an essential component of modern computing, and its applications are only expected to grow in the future.

Latest Articles about PCIe

---

Radeon: AMD Radeon, a product line by Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), consists of graphics processing units (GPUs) recognized for their strong performance in gaming, content creation, and professional applications. Powered by innovative technologies like the RDNA architecture, Radeon GPUs deliver efficient and powerful graphics processing. The brand also supports features like FreeSync, enhancing visual fluidity and reducing screen tearing during gaming. Moreover, AMD Radeon GPUs embrace real-time ray tracing for heightened realism in lighting and reflections. With a balance between price and performance, Radeon competes with NVIDIA's GeForce graphics cards and remains a popular choice for a wide range of users.

Latest Articles about Radeon